An air quality consultant measures air pollution and air quality at different sites and writes reports on the results. They use the results to determine if pollution levels will cause harm to human health or ecological habitats.

The Work

You could be:

• carrying out assessments to measure odour and air quality
• writing technical reports on survey results
• making models of pollution and how it disperses in the atmosphere using software such as ADMS (Roads), EMIT and DMRB
• using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map pollution
• using and calibrating (setting up) sampling equipment and ensuring that correct measurements are taken
• working with a range of agencies, consultants, engineers and architects to produce reports
• doing desk-based studies to assess local air quality near to proposed schemes and developments
• carrying out environmental impact assessments (EIAs)
• helping to develop plans for carbon foot printing.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of the company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

Salaries for junior or graduate air quality consultants range from around £20,000 to £23,000 a year. An air quality consultant could earn £25,000 to £35,000. A senior air quality consultant could earn up to £55,000 a year.

Conditions

• You would work mainly in an office.
• You would also travel to sites to carry out surveys and impact assessments.
• You would usually work normal office hours, Monday to Friday.

Useful Subjects

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Environmental Science

Getting In

• You need a good honours degree (SCQF Levels 10/11) in a relevant environmental or science subject.
• Entry requirements for an environmental or science degree courses is usually 4-5 Highers including 2 science subjects plus English and Maths at National 5.
• A postgraduate qualification (SCQF Level 11) in air quality is usually preferred. The University of Birmingham runs an MSc in Air Pollution Management and Control which is accredited by the Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM).
• Work experience gained during term time or the summer would be beneficial. Some employers prefer previous experience in this sector.
• You should be a member of a professional body such as the IAQM.
• A full driving licence is usually essential.

You could find work with specialist consultancies or local authorities.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2025

561

2.1 %

RISE

2030

573

  United Kingdom

2025

7580

3.9 %

RISE

2030

7876

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What Does it Take?

You need to be:

• able to write accurate technical reports
• well organised to manage projects
• skilled in IT and able to use specialist monitoring or modelling software
• self-motivated
• able to work under pressure to meet deadlines
• able to work in a team and with other professionals.

You should have:

• strong communication skills to work with clients
• good numeracy and problem solving skills
• commercial awareness
• an up to date knowledge of UK and EU air quality legislation and regulation.

Training

• Training is normally on the job.
• The IAQM offers accredited short courses and seminars which are suitable for air quality professionals.
• There are four grades of membership of the IAQM: Affiliate, Associate, Member and Fellow. The Affiliate membership is typically for those interested in air quality but do not work in the field. For subsequent memberships you must have experience working in the industry and relevant qualifications.

Getting On

• The IAQM offers support for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to help members develop their careers.
• You would start your career as a junior or graduate air quality consultant assisting an experienced consultant. You could then apply for a position of air quality consultant. After a number of years' experience you could look for promotion to senior air quality consultant.
• You could apply to the Institution of Environmental Sciences to become a Chartered Environmentalist or Chartered Scientist.

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Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.